SUPPLEMENT A

Text messages between Andrew Ashford and Abigail Ryder

May 9, 2017—Day of interviews

Ashford | Abby

Are you done reviewing Miss Donoghue’s written statements?

Mostly.

You’ve had them for over a day.

She wrote a _lot_.

I’m looking over your notes. Obviously the Nick Dessen thing is disturbing.

I also think that given the messages from Jeremy Polk’s phone, something’s off about the bridge where she met up with Anthony.

Interesting that she doesn’t say anything about the dreams.

I would go as far as to say “key,” not just interesting.

Yeah.

You don’t trust her.

You do?

Not precisely. But I want you to be certain that you are remaining objective.

Why wouldn’t I be objective? Because of Miranda?

You know Sara knows more about her than she’s saying.

I believe so, yes. But again, we do not know the reasons why.

Sara Donoghue is a victim in all of this. Our responsibility is to her well-being.

We’ll see about that.

She is arriving in a few hours. Please make sure that everything is prepared.

You’re the boss.

I am not sure I am comfortable with that classification of our relationship.

If you can think of a less sketchy version of a teenage orphan hanging out with a balding middle-aged disgraced professor, crossing state lines and inappropriately involving ourselves in ongoing criminal investigations, let me know.

I admit there does not seem to be a suitable alternative.

I’ve been telling people I’m your intern.

Please . . . don’t.

I could tell people you’re my dad.

Abby.

You don’t think we look alike?

Just get everything ready. The syringes are in the glove box.

Sure thing, boss.